Biodiversity and Environmental research center-BERC, Botanical Gardens
In June 2021, the Environmental Quality Authority (EQA) and the Biodiversity and Environmental Research Center (BERC) will jointly celebrate World Environment Day at BERC’s educational botanical gardens in Tell, Nablus, under the global theme “Ecosystem Restoration: Reimagine. Recreate. Restore.” The event is expected to host EQA Head Mr. Jameel Mtour, UNDP Representative Ms. Yvonne Helle, and several officials from government bodies, NGOs, and the local community. During the event, EQA will officially recognize BERC’s gardens as a Biodiversity Area, to be included in the National Master Plan for the Protection of Natural Resources in Palestine. The program will also feature the inauguration of the Royal Iris Garden, dedicated to the protection and study of endangered native species such as Iris nablusensis, Iris haynei, and Iris lortetii. Additionally, a photo exhibition titled “The Royal Iris of Palestine: A Treasure of Beauty” will be launched, highlighting the floral diversity and ecological importance of Palestine’s native plants. The event will conclude with symbolic planting of native species like wild fig and Royal Iris to support ecosystem restoration. Prof. Mohammed Saleem Shtayeh, Director of BERC, has announced that the planting of endangered native species will become an annual tradition on Palestine’s Environment Day (March 5), as part of the center’s broader mission to promote biodiversity conservation and public engagement.